Carmen … energy and happiness.

Carmen pouts her lips like a model as she poses for the camera. She strikes several different poses as she works her way around the Pondok Dua playground and Learning Forest area. She isn’t one to spend too much time on the ground. Walking is a means to an end and her goal is always to get to the forest as quickly as she can. She rushes from the sleeping enclosure straight into the open arms of the trees.

Within the forest Carmen has moments of quiet and thoughtful contemplation interspersed with bursts of mad energy. In the forest Carmen plays with tree branches. In the playground she rolls around the nets and swings from the ropes. Through such well-practiced play and vigorous social interaction, Carmen is now fully aware of what her body can do. The continued daily releases assist with bodily flexibility and intelligence. Carmen allows us to observe her up close and personal. She doesn’t mind demonstrating that she knows what she is doing, otherwise known as showing off.

Nor does Carmen waste her time brooding. Along with her friends Summer, Meli, and Dodot she makes the most of each day. Carmen is never more at home than when she is high up in the canopy. Her long arms stretch out and allow her to reach for the stars. She leans on the tree as if it’s a countertop and she is waiting to be served. All this play and climbing can expend a lot of energy! When forest fruit isn’t enough, her caregivers are on hand to provide cultivated fruits such as rambutan, mango or papaya. Carmen never goes without. This is no chore for her caregivers, as she is always a pleasure. She is never a problem to either her orangutan peers or her caregivers. Carmen never asks for too much. Even a small area with trees, leaves and room to play is enough for her to explore and find happiness. We will continue to provide what she needs as long as she needs it.

Click here to download Carmen’s August 2021 Foster Update